Description:
(Poet)
Paul Laurence Dunbar was an American playwright, poet and novelist. He was born into a slave family in Dayton, Ohio, and started writing stories and verse very early. He gained recognition for his work in school and served as president of his high school literary society. Dunbar published his first poem in a Dayton newspaper at the age of 16. Most of his work was written in Black English. He also wrote in the Midwestern regional dialect and became one of the first African-Americans writers to get global recognition. One of his best known works is the lyrics for the Broadway musical ‘In Dahomey.’ He had a short life of just 33 years but he wrote several popular novels and poetry in conventional English. The New York Times named him; ‘A true singer of the people white or black’.
Birthday
June 27, 1872 (Cancer)
Born In
United States
City
Dayton, Ohio
Died on
February 9, 1906
Spouse/Ex-
Alice Ruth Moore
Parents
Joshua Dunbar
Matilda Dunbar
What is Paul Laurence Dunbar known for?
Paul Laurence Dunbar is known for being an influential African American poet, novelist, and playwright during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
What themes are prevalent in Paul Laurence Dunbar's works?
Themes of racial identity, social injustice, love, and dialect are prevalent in Paul Laurence Dunbar's works.
How did Paul Laurence Dunbar's race influence his writing?
As an African American writer during a time of racial segregation and discrimination, Paul Laurence Dunbar's race deeply influenced his writing, often addressing themes of racial identity and social injustice.
What impact did Paul Laurence Dunbar have on American literature?
Paul Laurence Dunbar is credited with being one of the first African American poets to gain national recognition and helped pave the way for future generations of African American writers.
How did Paul Laurence Dunbar's use of dialect contribute to his literary style?
Paul Laurence Dunbar's use of dialect, particularly African American Vernacular English, added authenticity and richness to his works, capturing the voices and experiences of African Americans in his time.
